I am a research engineer working towards a future where biomechanics and technology seamlessly intersect and nobody is limited by physical disability or injury. I am currently a PhD candidate at MIT and conduct research in the Newman Laboratory for Biomechanics and Human Rehabilitation. My current work involves developing assistive devices for older adults to extend mobility and enable aging in place.
I previously worked in the entertainment division at McLaren Engineering Group; built ventricular assist devices at Jarvik Heart; and completed an engineering internship at Walt Disney World's Central Shops.
If you think rehabilitation and entertainment engineering don't go together, well, you're probably right, but I am interested in both! The common thread that runs through everything I do is a desire to tackle the hardest technical problems I can find, to shrink the gap between humans and robotic technology, and to create a tangible, personal impact.
I graduated Cum Laude from Columbia University with a bachelor’s of science in mechanical engineering and a minor in biomedical engineering. I also hold a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience & behavior from Wesleyan University, obtained through Wesleyan and Columbia’s dual-degree engineering program. In addition to engineering, my interests include performing improv comedy and making music.
You can reach me at stephan [AT] stephanmak [DOT] es.